Effects of shape feature on compression characteristics and crack rules of maize kernel

The physical and compression properties were analyzed for three kernel shapes of hybrid maize, Dika 517 and Denghai 618, grown under the same agroecological conditions. The average forces required to rupture the kernels of Dika 517 and Denghai 618 were 150.35 +/- 80.90 N and 161.74 +/- 86.16 N, respectively, and the average kernel rupture energies were 134.25 +/- 50.77 mJ and 137.78 +/- 58.35 mJ, respectively. Pyramidal and rectangular shape kernels exhibited the largest rupture force and energy at the thickness position, and round kernels have the highest rupture force and energy at length. The energy absorbed by kernels increased with an increased loading rate. The law of cracking for various surfaces differed under different loading directions for different shape kernels. Practical applications The physical and mechanical properties of maize kernels are different because of their different shapes. Understanding the physical and mechanical properties of maize kernels is important to assess the product quality, but is also crucial for the effective design and development of equipment and structures for efficient sowing, harvesting, transporting, handling, and processing.